Author: Sam Allcock
Sam Allcock
Sam Allcock is a seasoned media professional and content strategist with a passion for storytelling across digital platforms. As a contributor to Abu Dhabi Week, Sam brings a sharp editorial eye and a deep appreciation for the culture, innovation, and lifestyle that define the UAE capital. With over a decade of experience in journalism and public relations, he covers everything from local events and business trends to travel, dining, and community highlights. When he's not writing, Sam is exploring the hidden gems of Abu Dhabi, always on the lookout for the next story worth sharing.
Chinese automaker OMODA&JAECOO is preparing to introduce its flagship hybrid vehicle, the Jaecoo J7 SHS (Super Hybrid System), in the United Arab Emirates by the end of August. Aimed at redefining hybrid mobility in the region, the J7 combines long-range capability, fuel efficiency, and advanced safety features, all while eliminating the need for external charging. The J7 SHS offers a significant breakthrough in hybrid technology with its Super Hybrid System, designed to provide the experience of an electric vehicle without the dependence on public charging stations. The system enables the car to travel over 1,200 kilometers on a full tank…
Leading scholars and diplomats gathered at the American University of Beirut (AUB) this week to examine Saudi Arabia’s ambitious reform agenda under Vision 2030. Hosted by the Good Governance and Citizenship Observatory (GGCO) at the Asfari Institute, the panel discussion, titled “Hawkama and Vision 2030: The Reform of Governance in Saudi Arabia”, featured keynote speaker Professor Bernard Haykel of Princeton University, a prominent authority on the Gulf region. The discussion focused on how Saudi Arabia’s sweeping institutional changes are driving greater transparency, accountability, and sustainability. These reforms, many rooted in the country’s Vision 2030 agenda, aim to reshape governance and…
Emirates Airline has officially resumed passenger services to Damascus, Syria, marking its return to the “City of Jasmine” after a 12-year hiatus. Flight EK913 touched down at Damascus International Airport on Monday afternoon, welcomed with a traditional water cannon salute and a high-profile reception ceremony. The Boeing 777-200LR aircraft, carrying 286 passengers, was met by a UAE delegation led by H.E. Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports and Chairman of the UAE Space Agency. The delegation included senior Emirates executives and officials from UAE civil aviation and security bodies. Syrian aviation and airport authorities were also present to…
GODIVA, the iconic Belgian chocolatier, is transforming summer snacking with the launch of its Limited Edition Chocolates Collection, specially designed to be enjoyed straight from the freezer. In a bold twist on traditional indulgence, the brand introduces a new ritual for chocolate lovers: ice-cold luxury. This latest innovation breaks from conventional norms, offering chocolates that retain their smooth texture and rich flavor even when frozen — a feat made possible by a bespoke recipe developed by GODIVA’s master chocolatiers. The collection is crafted to address a long-standing issue: how premium chocolate often loses quality when chilled. GODIVA’s solution? Reinvent the…
Despite a rise in digital alternatives, business travel remains a vital part of corporate life in the Middle East. A new survey by SAP Concur highlights strong support for in-person travel among employees — but with significant differences in how different generations travel, spend, and save. According to the seventh annual SAP Concur Global Business Travel Survey, 64% of business travellers in the Middle East say travel is essential to their jobs, and 33% say it’s helpful. Only 3% consider it unnecessary. However, as executives increasingly turn to video conferencing and messaging apps to cut costs, employees are navigating a…
Kuwaiti carrier Jazeera Airways has officially resumed direct flights to the Saudi Arabian city of Abha, reinforcing air travel connectivity between Kuwait and the Kingdom. The airline will operate three weekly flights, marking a significant step in expanding its Saudi network to seven destinations. The launch was commemorated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by senior representatives from both countries. Bandar Bin Aboud, Counselor at the Saudi Embassy in Kuwait, joined Barathan Pasupathi, CEO of Jazeera Airways, and Naser Fahad Alobaid, Chief Executive of Government Affairs at the airline, to inaugurate the renewed route. “This expansion demonstrates our ongoing commitment to…
The Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Emirates Intellectual Property Association (EIPA), aiming to enhance public awareness of intellectual property (IP) and strengthen the UAE’s cultural and innovation landscape. The agreement sets the stage for a series of joint initiatives, workshops, and educational campaigns designed to promote IP rights and foster a deeper understanding of their importance across society. The collaboration reflects a shared commitment to support the UAE’s knowledge-based economy by safeguarding creative, literary, and artistic works through education and legal infrastructure. Under the MoU, the two entities…
AlMabarrah AlKhalifia Foundation (MKF) has unveiled its 2025 lineup of youth development programs under the Ithra initiative, reinforcing its mission to empower Bahraini youth through education and skill-building. This year’s offering introduces a new age-specific track and continues to deliver dynamic programming for multiple age groups. The highlight of the 2025 series is the launch of Ithra Youth, a new segment targeting adolescents aged 15 to 16, aimed at advancing their cognitive and personal development. The program offers a blend of experiential learning, skill enhancement, and preparatory guidance for academic and real-world challenges. Graduates are given pathways to continue their…
LG Electronics has officially unveiled its 2025 OLED evo and QNED evo TV lineup in the Gulf region, marking a major leap in AI-driven home entertainment. With enhanced brightness, immersive audio, and personalized user interaction, the new range promises a transformative viewing experience tailored to the modern household. At the heart of the OLED evo series are the G5 and M5 models, equipped with LG’s flagship α11 AI Processor 4K Gen2. This advanced chip powers real-time pixel-level control over the screen’s 8.3 million self-lit pixels, delivering richer depth, sharper detail, and exceptional color contrast. The Brightness Booster Ultimate feature enables…
Orange Jordan has signed a landmark strategic partnership with Dubai-based IT solutions distributor StarLink, a move aimed at expanding its ICT portfolio and reinforcing its role as a driver of digital transformation in Jordan. The partnership supports the Kingdom’s national digital economy strategy and underscores Orange Jordan’s commitment to providing secure, cutting-edge digital solutions for businesses. The agreement was formalised in the presence of Orange Jordan CEO Eng. Philippe Mansour, StarLink CEO Mr. Nidal Othman, and senior representatives from both companies. StarLink, part of the Infinigate Group, is a recognised leader in IT distribution and cybersecurity across the Middle East.…